Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s Visit to India Marks a New Chapter in Bilateral Relations

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s Visit to India Marks a New Chapter in Bilateral Relations

After a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assured, “I have assured the Indian Prime Minister that Sri Lankan soil will never be used in any way against India’s interests.”

President Dissanayake, on his first foreign trip since assuming office in September, described the visit as a milestone in enhancing cooperation between the two nations.

Acknowledgment of India’s Support

President Dissanayake expressed gratitude for India’s assistance, stating,
“Two years ago, our country faced an unprecedented economic crisis. We are deeply thankful for the substantial support India provided to help us recover. India’s role in the debt restructuring process has also been invaluable.”

Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s financial support to Sri Lanka, which includes $5 billion in lines of credit and grants. India will also provide funding for projects such as the modernization of the Maho-Anuradhapura railway signaling system and the development of the Kankesanthurai port.

Resolving Fishermen’s Issues with a Humane Approach

The bilateral talks placed special emphasis on resolving livelihood issues concerning fishermen from both countries. Prime Minister Modi said,
“We have decided to address this issue with a humanitarian perspective.”

President Dissanayake added, “The practice of bottom trawling used by fishermen poses a significant threat to the industry. We aim to find a sustainable solution to this issue.”

Defense Cooperation Agreement to Be Finalized Soon

The two leaders agreed to enhance India-Sri Lanka defense cooperation. Prime Minister Modi noted,
“Our security interests are interconnected. We have decided to finalize the defense cooperation agreement and strengthen collaboration in areas like maritime security, counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and humanitarian assistance.”

Tourism and Cultural Ties

Following the successful launch of ferry services between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai, Prime Minister Modi announced a new ferry route from Rameswaram to Talaimannar.
He added,
“The Buddhist Circuit and Ramayana Trail tourism will unlock immense potential for our countries.”

Appeal for Fulfilling the Aspirations of Tamil People

Prime Minister Modi urged the Sri Lankan government to ensure the rights of the Tamil community. He stated,
“We hope the Sri Lankan government will work to fulfill the aspirations of Tamils and ensure the full implementation of the constitution.”

Education and Administrative Training

Prime Minister Modi announced scholarships for 200 university students from Sri Lanka’s Jaffna and Eastern Provinces starting in 2025. Additionally, 1,500 Sri Lankan government officials will receive training in India over the next five years.

Sri Lanka’s Trust in India

President Dissanayake concluded by affirming,
“Prime Minister Modi has assured that India will always stand by us in protecting our sovereignty and territorial integrity. Our cooperation will continue to grow.”